Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the main argument or central idea of an entire essay. It tells the reader what you are trying to prove or explain and guides everything that follows. A strong thesis is specific, debatable, and focused, and it usually appears at the end of the introduction.

Think of the thesis as the essay’s GPS — it shows the direction of the whole paper.

1. How to Write a Strong THESIS Sentence

(Think: the “road map” of your essay)

What is a Thesis?

A thesis sentence:

• States your main argument or insight

• Answers the essay question

• Tells the reader what you will prove

• Usually appears at the end of the introduction

The Thesis Formula: Topic + Strong Opinion + Reasons

In [text], the author shows that [main claim] through [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3].

Step-by-Step:

1. Name the topic or text

2. Decide what you believe about it

3. List 2–3 reasons that support your belief

Thesis Examples 

✔ In The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton shows that family is essential for survival through loyalty, sacrifice, and shared hardship.

✔ In the short story “Thank You, Ma’am,” Langston Hughes reveals that kindness can change a person by offering trust, understanding, and second chances.

❌ The Outsiders is a good book.
(Too weak—no argument or reasons)

Student Checklist for a Thesis

✔ Makes a claim (not a summary)
✔ Can be argued or proven
✔ Mentions main ideas that will become body paragraphs

Topic Sentence

A topic sentence is the main idea of a single body paragraph. It explains what that paragraph will focus on and shows how it supports or connects back to the thesis. Every body paragraph should have one clear topic sentence.

Think of topic sentences as road signs — they show how each paragraph fits into the journey set by the thesis.

How to Write a Clear TOPIC Sentence

(Think: the “mini-thesis” of one paragraph)

What is a Topic Sentence?

A topic sentence:

• Is the first sentence of a body paragraph

• Focuses on one reason from the thesis

• Explains what this paragraph will prove

The Topic Sentence Formula

Reason from Thesis + Connection to Claim

One way the author shows [thesis idea] is through [specific reason].

Step-by-Step for Students

1. Look at your thesis

2. Choose one reason

3. Turn it into a complete thought to create your topic sentence

Topic Sentence Examples

Thesis:
In The Outsiders, Hinton shows that family is essential for survival through loyalty, sacrifice, and shared hardship.

Topic Sentences:
✔ One way Hinton shows the importance of family is through the loyalty the Greasers show each other.
✔ Another way family helps the boys survive is through the sacrifices they are willing to make for one another.

Student Checklist for Topic Sentences

✔ Connects directly to the thesis
✔ Focuses on one idea only
✔ Does NOT include quotes or evidence

Student-Friendly Summary 

• Thesis: This is what my whole essay proves.

• Topic Sentence: This is what this paragraph proves.

Quick Comparison for Students

• Thesis statement: Controls the entire essay

• Topic sentence: Controls one paragraph

• Thesis = big idea

• Topic sentence = one piece of proof or explanation

Definition, steps, and examples adapted from ChatGPT (OpenAI), generated for instructional use.